We respectfully acknowledge that Keyano College is located on Treaty 8 territory, the traditional and contemporary meeting grounds and gathering places of the Denesuline, Cree and Métis Peoples of this region. Our name, Keyano (kiyânaw in nêhiyawêwin – Cree language), translates to “we, us, our” and speaks to the connection we have as a community and our commitment to being in the right relationships with the First Peoples of these lands.
Education, Community, and Growth
Keyano College is a comprehensive community college in the Regional Municipality of Wood Buffalo. Stretching from north-central Alberta to the borders of Saskatchewan and the Northwest Territories, Wood Buffalo is one of the largest municipalities in Canada.
Keyano has always been a cornerstone of education, industry, and community in Alberta. As we grow, we always remain true to the spirit of “Keyano”, the Cree word for sharing, and to the values that have shaped generations of learners, community members, and industries.
When Keyano, formerly known as the Alberta Vocational Centre (AVC), opened in 1965, the people of Northern Alberta, many of whom depended on hunting, trapping, and fishing, faced an economic transition driven by the rise of the Oil Sands industry. The Alberta Vocational Centre aimed to serve all learners willing to grow, starting from just three Atco trailers, providing hands-on trade training and academic upgrading. By its grand opening in 1966, 76 full-time students were enrolled, with 43 living on-site—many from remote communities such as Fort Vermilion and Pincher Creek.
Since its founding as the AVC and its official renaming to Keyano College on May 9, 1975, our institution has been committed to empowering northern Albertans with the skills needed to succeed in a rapidly changing world.
Driving Skills, Careers, and Community Growth
Today, Keyano College operates primarily through its two main facilities: the Clearwater Campus and the Suncor Energy Industrial Centre, both located in Fort McMurray. The college plays a vital role in serving the diverse needs of the community, focusing on industry-specific training and skills development that directly support regional economic growth. Beyond education, Keyano emphasizes personal growth, cultural understanding, and community engagement, making it a cornerstone of lifelong learning within the Wood Buffalo region.
The college offers a diverse range of educational opportunities that are both relevant and practical, aiming to expand access to post-secondary education in Wood Buffalo. Our programs result in various credentials, including certificates, diplomas, trades qualifications, and bachelor’s degrees, which are designed to meet the changing needs of local industries. Areas of study include energy, construction, business management, health and safety, arts and sciences, education, human services, and transportation, supporting both professional growth and industry readiness. In addition to traditional academic programs, Keyano offers a range of corporate and tailored training options, which are essential for workforce development and specialization. These programs often feature initiatives that promote Indigenous education and regional stewardship, demonstrating the college’s dedication to cultural inclusivity and sustainable progress.
At Keyano College, we’re focused on what comes next. Whether you're entering the trades, starting a career in healthcare, or studying business management, our programs are designed to connect you directly to real opportunities. You’ll learn from experienced professionals who bring their real-world knowledge into the classroom and are committed to helping you succeed.
We believe education should be personal. Our smaller class sizes give you the chance to build strong relationships with instructors and classmates, making your time at Keyano feel like more than just school, it feels like community.